Prostate Biopsy: Understanding Side Effects & Recovery

A prostate biopsy is a test doctors use to help detect prostate cancer. A needle is inserted in the prostate gland to gather a sample of the prostate tissue. Doctors check the prostate sample for high prostate-specific antigen, or PSA levels, and for cancerous cells. Here are some of the side effects that accompany a prostate biopsy exam.

Urinary Tract Infection

• A common side effect of a prostate biopsy exam is a urinary tract infection. This can be a painful infection that requires treatment with antibiotics.

Heavy Bleeding

• As a result of a prostate biopsy you may experience heavy bleeding. This may cause some of the cancerous cells to be released in your bloodstream.

Problems Urinating

• You may find it difficult to urinate. Consult your doctor immediately if this happens.

Discomfort

• You may feel slight pain and discomfort for a few days after undergoing a prostate biopsy.

Blood in the Semen

• According to the Mayo Clinic "Up to half the men who have a prostate biopsy report blood in their semen after the procedure."